Book excerpt: The NFL's best players, all in one action-packed volume. Over a century after the formation of the American Professional Football Conference, the precursor to the National Football League, pro football continues to excite and captivate millions of fans across the globe. At the core of the NFL is its legendary players -- the incredible athletes who have thrown, caught, run, tackled and kicked their way into the annals of sports history. NFL Heroes presents the best of the best in pro football. From the pioneers, to the current stars, to the all-time legends that occupy the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, they're all here, including: Tom Brady Jim Brown Jerry Rice Dick Butkus Johnny Unitas Deacon Jones Reggie White Joe Montana Antonio Brown Walter Payton Bronko Nagurski Aaron Donald Dan Marino Terry Bradshaw Emmitt Smith Brett Favre Roger Staubach Rob Gronkowski LaDainian Tomlinson Deion Sanders. Featuring 100 riveting stories and over 120 photos of the game's best, this updated, second edition of NFL Heroes is a must-read for any fan of America's favorite sport.